Water catchment mining gains expert's tick

By
DOMINIC GEIGER

NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer Mary O'Kane has released a report addressing cumulative affects of mining activities in the Sydney Water Catchment.

Warragamba Dam overflows into the Nepean River.

NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer Mary O'Kane has released a report addressing cumulative affects of mining activities in the Sydney Water Catchment.

The review, requested by the state government, brought together acknowledged experts in a range of relevant disciplines to examine the question of cumulative impacts on water quantity and quality.

They determined that though it was not possible to get a detailed understanding of cumulative impacts on water quantity, contemporary treatment processes were sufficient to protect the quality of Sydney's drinking water against any adverse impact.

"I have recommended the government create a whole-of-catchment data repository, and that will enable better modelling of the cumulative impacts of activities, such as CSG extraction and longwall mining," Professor O'Kane said.

The review found no evidence to suggest current activities in the catchment should be halted.

Prof O'Kane also recommended the state government strengthen industry insurance requirements to guard against possible environmental damage from CSG activities, and consider establishing an environmental rehabilitation fund to address unforeseen or long-term environmental impacts and remediation.